Infertility is when one is unable to get pregnant after six to 12 months of regular sexual intercourse without the use of any birth control. Infertility can be caused by a blockage in the fallopian tubes where the eggs travel from the ovaries to the uterus. Fallopian tube recanalization (unblocking) is performed using X-ray images. The interventional radiologist will place a small catheter through the cervix, into the uterus and fallopian tubes to clear the blockage. Most patients can resume their normal activity the day of discharge and guidance will be provided on post treatment care.
Conditions Treated and Procedures Performed
- Conditions Treated: Female infertility
- Reason for Procedure: To diagnose and treat blockages of your fallopian tubes, which may be the cause of infertility.
- How It’s Performed: An Interventional Radiologist will place a speculum in your vaginal canal and a small catheter in your cervix. Contrast dye will be injected into your uterus under X-ray guidance to evaluate for scarring or blockage of your fallopian tubes. Small catheters and wires can be used to open your fallopian tubes if necessary.
- Anesthesia: Conscious Sedation
- Recovery Time: 1-2 hours
- For more information and to schedule a consultation with one of our IR physicians, please call 631-403-7088
- Conditions Treated: Varicocele, Male Infertility, Testicular Pain
- Reason for Procedure: Varicoceles can develop due to incompetent valves in your gonadal/spermatic veins. Large varicoceles can cause chronic, dull, achy pain in the testicles. In certain cases, varicoceles can cause decreased sperm count and lead to male infertility. Varicocele embolization can provide symptomatic relief and improve fertility.
- How It’s Performed: An Interventional Radiologist will access a vein in your arm, neck, or leg. Under X-ray guidance, a small catheter will be advanced into the abnormal veins, and contrast dye will be injected to study the veins. If enlarged veins are noted, they can be occluded using metal coils, plugs, or other chemical agents, reducing blood flow to the varicocele and improving symptoms.
- Anesthesia: Conscious Sedation
- Recovery Time: 2 hours
- For more information and to schedule a consultation with one of our IR physicians, please call 631-403-7088
